Marie-Therese Elisabeth Helene Hohenberg Bailey v Anthony John Bailey & Ors
[2022] EWFC 5

Natasha was part of the team acting for Princess Marie-Therese Hohenberg Bailey in a long-running dispute concerning the enforcement of financial orders made following divorce. Despite findings in the underlying financial remedy proceedings that the husband had been dishonest and had sought to frustrate the implementation of the court's orders, he continued to refuse to take steps required to enable the wife to receive her financial award. Following extensive enforcement proceedings, the Court found that the husband had acted in contempt of court and sentenced him to 12 months' imprisonment. Two third parties who had assisted in obstructing the implementation of the orders were also found in contempt. The decision demonstrates the Family Court's willingness to take robust action where parties deliberately ignore court orders and seek to prevent the enforcement of financial awards. It highlights the extensive powers available to the court, including committal to prison, when faced with serious and persistent non-compliance.